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A fresh set of spy shots have come, revealing Cadillac's upcoming CT4 sedan. This will be replacement for the slow-selling ATS.
But you might be thinking this is the larger CT5, the replacement for the CTS. Both vehicles are dressed up in similar-looking camouflage and have the same overall shape. We'll admit that we were confused when we first laid eyes on the photos, but Autoblog has come to rescue to by having spy shots of both the CT4 and CT5 to help point out differences.
The key difference between the two models is in the back. If the cutout for license plate is at the bumper and a slightly rounded trunk lid, that's the CT4. If the cutout is higher and the trundled is slightly flatter, that's the CT5. There are some other tells such as the CT4's greenhouse ending closer to centerline of the rear wheels, and the size of side-view mirrors. One item that is similar on both models is the influence of the Escala concept in the front - large grille and slim headlights.
Both sedans are expected to use an updated version of the Alpha RWD platform.
Expect to see the CT4 debut sometime towards the end of 2019.
Source: Autoblog
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Cadillac's CT6 lineup in the U.S. will be seeing the departure of one its powertrains for 2019. GM Authority is reporting that Cadillac will be canning plug-in hybrid variant for the U.S.
"Cadillac remains committed to electrified systems for our vehicles. Although production of the CT6 PLUG-IN for North America is discontinuing for the 2019 model year, alternative fuel vehicles remain a part of our future product portfolio as we move deeper in to our 10-year plan. GM has committed to 20 electric vehicles by 2023, some of which will be Cadillacs," a spokesman told the outlet.
This is likely a recent decision, considering the model was listed in GM's VIN decoder documents. What caused Cadillac to change its mind on the CT6 Plug-In Hybrid? Most likely it comes down to tariffs as the CT6 is imported from China and gets slapped with a 25 percent tariff when it enters the U.S. market. Add in the factor that only a small number of 10,542 CT6s sold in the U.S. were the plug-in hybrid and it isn't quite surprising that the model has been axed.
Cadillac will continue selling the plug-in hybrid version of the CT6 in China.
Quick refresher on the CT6 Plug-In Hybrid: The powertrain was comprised of a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four, two electric motors, and an 18.4-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack to produce a total output of 449 horsepower. Maximum electric range stands at 31 miles.
Source: GM Authority
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Cadillac's CT6 lineup in the U.S. will be seeing the departure of one its powertrains for 2019. GM Authority is reporting that Cadillac will be canning plug-in hybrid variant for the U.S.
"Cadillac remains committed to electrified systems for our vehicles. Although production of the CT6 PLUG-IN for North America is discontinuing for the 2019 model year, alternative fuel vehicles remain a part of our future product portfolio as we move deeper in to our 10-year plan. GM has committed to 20 electric vehicles by 2023, some of which will be Cadillacs," a spokesman told the outlet.
This is likely a recent decision, considering the model was listed in GM's VIN decoder documents. What caused Cadillac to change its mind on the CT6 Plug-In Hybrid? Most likely it comes down to tariffs as the CT6 is imported from China and gets slapped with a 25 percent tariff when it enters the U.S. market. Add in the factor that only a small number of 10,542 CT6s sold in the U.S. were the plug-in hybrid and it isn't quite surprising that the model has been axed.
Cadillac will continue selling the plug-in hybrid version of the CT6 in China.
Quick refresher on the CT6 Plug-In Hybrid: The powertrain was comprised of a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four, two electric motors, and an 18.4-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack to produce a total output of 449 horsepower. Maximum electric range stands at 31 miles.
Source: GM Authority

What does everyone make of this photo?
Jalopnik story
According to Jalopnik, an anonymous tipster emailed in photo's of a key fob and clearly proved it is from Cadillac by flipping the fob over to show the Cadillac logo on the back. The interesting thing is that the new leader of Cadillac has been busy rolling back all of the former leaders car focused stuff and refocusing on CUVs. Yet when asked about a new Halo auto and if the mid-engine corvette could be used as a base, the response was we will have something much more interesting and special for Cadillac.
Now with that said, we get pictures of this fob which would show a frunk and trunk plus a retractable roof. Is it possible that Cadillac could go AWD EV Halo on us?
What do you all think is going on here? Is it the fob to an EV Halo car, Hybrid Halo car, Mid-Engine ICE Halo?

Howdy all, took my Escalade in for routine service, got an XT5 as a loaner for the day and stopped to check out the two XT4's they had sitting by the service center.
First impression, WOW, this is actually nicer looking than the 2018 XT5 I have as a loaner. XT5 needs the interior of the XT4 as it shows it is dated. Sorry for the fuzzy pictures, my screen is cracked and I did not realize how fuzzy some of the pics are.
First sat in the front passenger side, have about 3 inches above my 6'6" 300lb body, plenty of leg room, very comfy.
Next I did the David test, jumped out and got in the back seat to see how I fit. Very hard doing a selfie, legs have to straddle the seat, no knee room, but then I expected that. Head room was about an inch or so, tight but doable for short trips. Have to bend forward to watch the head, otherwise people over 6' will smack their head getting in and out. Will say that I really like the Kona interior with Black and wood accents. Very nice.
I have to say that I liked the rear heated seats and USB port.
From the back seat, pretty easy to see the front dash. Love the buttons plus the touch screen in this CUV.
Went around to the drivers side, have to say very comfy. Probably one of the best seat setups yet for Cadillac.
This XT4 is the Sport addition, had the white tail lights that I really like. But found one other thing and I have to say, I did not think it would be any big deal till I tried it and OMG, I want it on my next auto.
As you can see here in the seat adjustments, the massage seat. WOW, talk about awesome along with a very adjustable lumbar support and the multi-positional seat adjustments. Massage is worth it.
So then I took a look under the Hood, Turbo is the engine as we all knew, tight package, but clean in the layout for AWD / FWD bias.
I will say this auto is sharp looking and way better in person than in pictures.
Was walking around it and decided to pop open the gas cap, discovered a surprise that I think Cadillac is hiding.
What do you see here?
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
Give up? Well, around the gas filler is a rubber boot. Most people would not think anything about it, but the engineer in me wondered why the weird C to the left. Pressing in revealed to the feel a rectangle top to bottom plastic outline. Pulling the boot up a little to look under that rubber is what appears to be I think a socket to hold a Plugin port for a Hybrid. Think about this, that opening is much wider than it needs to be just for Gas fueling only and why would you want a port up on the drivers side front fender. It just makes sense to have both the charging port and gas port under one lid.
I realize I could be totally wrong on this, but it does have me thinking about why a tall Rectangular plastic houseing on the left side of the gas filler hole and the width of this panel. Plugin Hybrid, EV, I do wonder!
There was a White Premium Luxury with the Sky roof and it was nice, but I do not like the red tail lights after seeing the white ones. Rims on the Premium I do not like as much as the Sport rims too.
This Metallic Black XT4 Sport edition is really nice.
Seeing it next to my 2018 XT5 Loaner, Cadillac has a home run on their hands and it should sell very well. I cannot see how they will get the XT4 lights onto the XT5 without some body metal changes, but then they might just consider a more radical update to get it inline as if the XT6 comes with them, then the XT5 will be the odd duck out. Yet I know some say that difference might not be a bad thing.
One thing I do know is that Cadillac has delivered a luxury compact CUV to the market and I am excited to see how it sells.
I will also state this here, @balthazar is right on about Cadillac DOES NOT need an XT3 below this for the market. Leave that to Chevrolet and Buick. Cadillac should focus on their CT4 and XT4 Auto's and above in standard, V-Sport, V editions and have the Halo auto and coupes. That is perfect for them. Plus, lets take the Escalade to the V-Sport and V edition level. They really need to do this pronto.

Cadillac was one of the first brands to launch a subscription service. Called Book, the service allowed users to access Cadillac's lineup including the Escalade and CTS-V for a monthly fee. But only a year after it launched the program, General Motors is pulling the plug.
The Wall Street Journal broke the news this afternoon, learning from sources that the company will end operations of Book by the end of the year. Subscribers will have a 30-day window from the time they notified to turn in their vehicles. A GM spokesman confirmed the closure.
According to sources, certain aspects of Book proved to be quite costly. A key example was some of the back-end technology used to support the service "made some customer-service functions tedious and time-consuming, adding costs for the company." This move comes a few days after GM announced that it would be offering voluntary buyouts to 18,000 salaried workers.
Analysts say car subscriptions bring a number of headaches with trying to deal with the logistics of keeping vehicles repaired, cleaned, and delivering them within a short time frame.
“Some of these services will even transfer your stuff from car to car, from your phone charger to your kid’s stroller. The problems posed in offering that level of service at scale are vast,” said Ivan Drury, senior analyst with Edmunds.com.
The GM spokesman told the Wall Street Journal that the program could restart in the future.
“We are hitting the pause button for a brief time to make some tweaks to Book [by Cadillac] based on our learnings,” he said.
Cadillac isn't the only brand that is rethinking the whole subscription model. Hyundai closed down their program which offered Ioniq Electrics only in California, though the brand is planning a revamped version to appear in the future. Lincoln is looking into making changes to their service which offers off-lease vehicles.
Source: Wall Street Journal (Subscription Required)
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Cadillac was one of the first brands to launch a subscription service. Called Book, the service allowed users to access Cadillac's lineup including the Escalade and CTS-V for a monthly fee. But only a year after it launched the program, General Motors is pulling the plug.
The Wall Street Journal broke the news this afternoon, learning from sources that the company will end operations of Book by the end of the year. Subscribers will have a 30-day window from the time they notified to turn in their vehicles. A GM spokesman confirmed the closure.
According to sources, certain aspects of Book proved to be quite costly. A key example was some of the back-end technology used to support the service "made some customer-service functions tedious and time-consuming, adding costs for the company." This move comes a few days after GM announced that it would be offering voluntary buyouts to 18,000 salaried workers.
Analysts say car subscriptions bring a number of headaches with trying to deal with the logistics of keeping vehicles repaired, cleaned, and delivering them within a short time frame.
“Some of these services will even transfer your stuff from car to car, from your phone charger to your kid’s stroller. The problems posed in offering that level of service at scale are vast,” said Ivan Drury, senior analyst with Edmunds.com.
The GM spokesman told the Wall Street Journal that the program could restart in the future.
“We are hitting the pause button for a brief time to make some tweaks to Book [by Cadillac] based on our learnings,” he said.
Cadillac isn't the only brand that is rethinking the whole subscription model. Hyundai closed down their program which offered Ioniq Electrics only in California, though the brand is planning a revamped version to appear in the future. Lincoln is looking into making changes to their service which offers off-lease vehicles.
Source: Wall Street Journal (Subscription Required)

The 2019 Cadillac XT4 is in production, on their way to dealerships and out for test drives around North America. Reviews have been very positive and people have a variety of love / hate it for the design. Even here on Cheers and Gears various members have a passion on how plastic is being used on the front and rear of the car.
With that it is time to take a closer look at some of the tech on this newest CUV from Cadillac. I found sandyblogs.com and the writers Tech Link. Here they do a pretty good job of pointing out the various tech on new auto's. I wanted to bring this into C&G for discussion and see what you all think.
Tech open for debate:
XT4 Electro-hydraulic brakes
Turbo Charged 2.0L engine
Plastic Engine Oil Pan
Multipoint Air filter sensors
9 speed transmission with shift by wire
Active Twin Clutch AWD system
Active Sports Suspension
Next Generation Infotainment system
Rotary Controller
Driver Assistance systems
Hands Free power liftgate
22 new specialty tools to work on the auto
The XT4 is the first GM auto to use their new brake control system that takes up considerably less room under the hood compared to a traditional Vacuum assisted power braking system. This new brake system is 13 lbs lighter than the old one it replaces. There are new braking sensors, brake pad sensors, wheel speed sensors and a new Power up self test. This makes the braking system a very self aware system for faster response with greater safety.
We then have the feature heavy 2.0L Turbo 4 motor with AFM (Active Fuel Management), SIDI (Spark ignited Direct Injection), DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), VVT (Variable Valve Timing) with this being the first new engine built on CSS or cylinder set strategy. This engine also uses an electric water pump using a built in local interconnect Network to manage cooling.
Oil is the Gen 2 full synthetic SAE 0W-20 and uses a hardened plastic oil pan connected to the engine block. This oil pan helps to reduce the overall weight by a few pounds.
The DIC in the auto is able to manage the multiple air sensor points on when you need to change the air filter.
The 9 speed transmission is one of the smallest ever and uses electronics to shift gears via input from the EPS (Electronic Precision Shift). This does have a slightly different pattern over the XT5 as it is just a straight up and down only.
The AWD twin clutch system is electronically controlled and allows a perfect 50/50 between front and back wheels and yet allows power up to 100% to be sent to the wheels with the best traction.
The active Sport Suspension adjusts to the road every 2 milliseconds and allows the driver to change between tour, sport or AWD mode at any time.
Cadillac is rolling out their next generation infotainment system. Higher quality graphics with a much faster more responsive system. faster to touch as well as voice. This system supports NFC (Near Field Communication) for easy pairing of your phone and the system.
Besides touching the screen or a button, there is a rotary controller now allowing ease in access among the menus and feature function.
Driver assistance systems is easiest to just post their long list of what this includes:
Safety Alert Seat
Rear Camera Mirror
Surround Vision 360-degree Camera
Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
Front/Rear Park Assist
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Front Pedestrian Braking
Forward Collision Alert
Forward/Reverse Automatic Braking
Head-Up Display
Automatic Parking Assist with Braking
Final feature is one that Cadillac competitor has had for years, Hand Free power liftgate. When you are within 6 ft of the rear of the auto with the fob in your pocket, you can just swing your foot and it will open the rear liftgate.
The final listed item is all the new tools needed to work on the XT4. You can review the list on the Tech Link 1.
Tech Link 1
Tech Link 2

Stop me if you have heard this before; Cadillac President Steve Carlisle is vowing to reboot the brand with six new models beginning with the XT4 crossover and a new advertising campaign that will replace the boring 'Dare Greatly" tagline.
“We lost our mojo for a long period of time. This time, it is different and we will show you,"
By Bloomberg's count, this is the eight reinvention of the brand in the past two decades. Despite the brand's best efforts to reverse a shrinking market share and improve their image, they haven't paid off in the U.S. China is a different story where Cadillac sold more vehicles there than in the U.S. last year.
Cadillac's problems are numerous and familiar; lack of SUVs, too many sedans, and older buyers continue to be the majority of people entering the showroom. Not helping has been the confusing "Dare Greatly" advertising.
“‘Dare Greatly’ has been a disaster from beginning to end. When you have product that is in many ways better than the competition, you tell people about it. You don’t dare them to take a leap of faith on your cars,” said Bob Lutz, retired GM chairman.
Carlisle agrees with Lutz on the ad campaign not really going anywhere. He and Deborah Wahl, Cadillac's new marketing boss are working on a new campaign "that will emphasize features and new technologies."
The upcoming the XT4 will also be playing a vital role, becoming the brand's least expensive model with a price tag of under $35,000. The low price and crossover shape are hoped by Cadillac that it will bring in younger customers.
Source: Bloomberg (Subscription Required)
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To say that today the average auto is a supercomputer would be an understatement. Auto's are being asked to do so much now that many take it for granted what they can do and others wonder why self driving auto's are not already normal here after years of self driving auto's being promised. Part of this is computer tech only now getting up to speed, other reasons is adoption by people.
Consumer Reports decided to check out just how good is autonomous driving and is it more of a Semi-automated driving. Consumer Reports has compared the Cadillac Super Cruise, Tesla's AutoPilot along with Nissan's ProPilot and Volvo's Pilot Assist.
While GM, Tesla and Volvo did not respond to Consumer Reports request for response, Nissan did issue a statement saying that their ProPilot Assist system is available on several models all of which cost tens of thousands of dollars less than the others in the report. While CR has tested the automated driving systems for years, this is their first official in depth testing of the systems. The testing was conducted on both private and public roads to insure real world results. With a system that uses a combination of cameras, radar and other various sensors to map, monitor and react to traffic conditions, each system had its limitations.
Cadillac Super Cruise only works on divided highways that have been mapped by GM.
Tesla Autopilot can work on small, curvy roads with poor lane markings but operates erratically in those situations.
Nissans ProPilot did better than Tesla and Volvo for keeping the drivers engaged but just under Cadillac's Super Cruise.
Over all Cadillac's Super Cruise was judged to be the best balance of High-tech capabilities with car operational safety and driver engagement.
Consumer Reports does point out that Super Cruise is NOT GM's Cruise self-driving technology that Honda has just bought into to help bring to market.
Reuters Story

Stop me if you have heard this before; Cadillac President Steve Carlisle is vowing to reboot the brand with six new models beginning with the XT4 crossover and a new advertising campaign that will replace the boring 'Dare Greatly" tagline.
“We lost our mojo for a long period of time. This time, it is different and we will show you,"
By Bloomberg's count, this is the eight reinvention of the brand in the past two decades. Despite the brand's best efforts to reverse a shrinking market share and improve their image, they haven't paid off in the U.S. China is a different story where Cadillac sold more vehicles there than in the U.S. last year.
Cadillac's problems are numerous and familiar; lack of SUVs, too many sedans, and older buyers continue to be the majority of people entering the showroom. Not helping has been the confusing "Dare Greatly" advertising.
“‘Dare Greatly’ has been a disaster from beginning to end. When you have product that is in many ways better than the competition, you tell people about it. You don’t dare them to take a leap of faith on your cars,” said Bob Lutz, retired GM chairman.
Carlisle agrees with Lutz on the ad campaign not really going anywhere. He and Deborah Wahl, Cadillac's new marketing boss are working on a new campaign "that will emphasize features and new technologies."
The upcoming the XT4 will also be playing a vital role, becoming the brand's least expensive model with a price tag of under $35,000. The low price and crossover shape are hoped by Cadillac that it will bring in younger customers.
Source: Bloomberg (Subscription Required)

One of the most controversial moves during Johan de Nysschen's tenure as Cadillac President was moving the brand's headquarters from Detroit to New York in 2015. Executives at GM explained at the time this would Cadillac to separate from the day-to-day operations of their mainstream brands - Buick, Chevrolet, and GMC. Sources at the time said another reason for the move came down to various GM executive worrying about Cadillac's worldview from Detroit "was too myopic for a brand with global aspirations."
But Cadillac will be moving out of their space at 330 Hudson Street in New York City back to Detroit. This was revealed by Cadillac's new president Steve Carlisle in a interview with the Wall Street Journal. The reason is that he wants the brand's leaders to be closer to GM’s vehicle design and engineering offices in Metro Detroit, especially considering Cadillac has a number of new and redesign models coming in the next few years.
“We have a huge number of launches ahead of us. We’ve got to think about how we take inefficiencies out of the communication process between the Cadillac team and the GM partners," said Carlisle.
Cadillac confirmed the move in a statement to The Detroit News.
"The move will place the Cadillac brand team closer to those responsible for the new Cadillacs, including design, engineering, purchasing and manufacturing, ensuring full integration of Cadillac’s global growth strategy. Cadillac will maintain a brand presence in New York City with the Cadillac House, an experiential brand center which serves as a public space for events, concerts and collaborative partnerships until longer term brand plans are in place," said the brand.
Cadillac didn't give a timeframe or where the headquarters would be located. Automotive News reports that U.S. Rep. Sander Levin, D-Mich., released a statement saying the headquarters would be based in Warren, MI - where GM has their technical center. A Cadillac spokesman declined to comment.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), The Detroit News, Wall Street Journal (Subscription Required)
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One of the most controversial moves during Johan de Nysschen's tenure as Cadillac President was moving the brand's headquarters from Detroit to New York in 2015. Executives at GM explained at the time this would Cadillac to separate from the day-to-day operations of their mainstream brands - Buick, Chevrolet, and GMC. Sources at the time said another reason for the move came down to various GM executive worrying about Cadillac's worldview from Detroit "was too myopic for a brand with global aspirations."
But Cadillac will be moving out of their space at 330 Hudson Street in New York City back to Detroit. This was revealed by Cadillac's new president Steve Carlisle in a interview with the Wall Street Journal. The reason is that he wants the brand's leaders to be closer to GM’s vehicle design and engineering offices in Metro Detroit, especially considering Cadillac has a number of new and redesign models coming in the next few years.
“We have a huge number of launches ahead of us. We’ve got to think about how we take inefficiencies out of the communication process between the Cadillac team and the GM partners," said Carlisle.
Cadillac confirmed the move in a statement to The Detroit News.
"The move will place the Cadillac brand team closer to those responsible for the new Cadillacs, including design, engineering, purchasing and manufacturing, ensuring full integration of Cadillac’s global growth strategy. Cadillac will maintain a brand presence in New York City with the Cadillac House, an experiential brand center which serves as a public space for events, concerts and collaborative partnerships until longer term brand plans are in place," said the brand.
Cadillac didn't give a timeframe or where the headquarters would be located. Automotive News reports that U.S. Rep. Sander Levin, D-Mich., released a statement saying the headquarters would be based in Warren, MI - where GM has their technical center. A Cadillac spokesman declined to comment.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), The Detroit News, Wall Street Journal (Subscription Required)

Cadillac is planning to make some significant changes to their V-Series sub-brand . Speaking to dealers yesterday in Las Vegas, General Motors product chief Mark Reuss said the lineup would expand beginning with the CT6 V-Sport next year - although it will be renamed to the CT6-V.
"Beginning with the debut of the CTS-V Sedan in 2004, the V-Series sub-brand sparked new life into Cadillac. As a result of the overwhelming response the CT6 V-Sport received when revealed in early 2018, we've decided to formally make it a V-Series, signaling the expansion of V-Series," said Reuss in a statement.
The CT6-V made its official debut at the New York Auto Show in March. It will boast a twin-turbo 4.2L V8 engine with double overhead cams producing 550 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. Other changes include a rear limited-slip differential, revised suspension components, and large Brembo brakes. A detuned version of the twin-turbo V8 will be available on the CT6 Platinum.
A Cadillac spokesman declined to comment on what the future models will get V variants, but we would assume the upcoming CT4 and CT5 are on the table.
2019 will be the final year for both the ATS-V and CTS-V a spokesman told Autoblog.
Source: Autoblog, Automotive News (Subscription Required), Cadillac
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Cadillac is planning to make some significant changes to their V-Series sub-brand . Speaking to dealers yesterday in Las Vegas, General Motors product chief Mark Reuss said the lineup would expand beginning with the CT6 V-Sport next year - although it will be renamed to the CT6-V.
"Beginning with the debut of the CTS-V Sedan in 2004, the V-Series sub-brand sparked new life into Cadillac. As a result of the overwhelming response the CT6 V-Sport received when revealed in early 2018, we've decided to formally make it a V-Series, signaling the expansion of V-Series," said Reuss in a statement.
The CT6-V made its official debut at the New York Auto Show in March. It will boast a twin-turbo 4.2L V8 engine with double overhead cams producing 550 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. Other changes include a rear limited-slip differential, revised suspension components, and large Brembo brakes. A detuned version of the twin-turbo V8 will be available on the CT6 Platinum.
A Cadillac spokesman declined to comment on what the future models will get V variants, but we would assume the upcoming CT4 and CT5 are on the table.
2019 will be the final year for both the ATS-V and CTS-V a spokesman told Autoblog.
Source: Autoblog, Automotive News (Subscription Required), Cadillac

As part of their ambitions to compete with European automakers on their home soil, Cadillac was working on a range of four- and six-cylinder diesel engines. According to Automotive News, the upcoming XT4 was expected to have a diesel engine by 2020 and other models would follow. There was also plans about selling diesels for Cadillacs in the U.S. But Cadillac President Steve Carlisle said development has been put on hold.
"We have been working on diesel, but the markets may be changing more quickly than we anticipated," he said to AN.
"Going forward, we will focus on electrification."
The diesel program at Cadillac got hit with a double whammy over the past few years. First was the Volkswagen diesel emission crisis that broke in September 2015. There was talk about killing the project, but "executives felt it had progressed too far to kill". Then last year, General Motors sold Opel to PSA Group. The German division was working with Cadillac with development. Still, the brand continued with progress.
It is unclear as to why Cadillac has put the program on hold now, but we're guessing the combination of stricter regulations coming into Europe and more competitors deciding to go all-in electrification are the main reasons.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
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As part of their ambitions to compete with European automakers on their home soil, Cadillac was working on a range of four- and six-cylinder diesel engines. According to Automotive News, the upcoming XT4 was expected to have a diesel engine by 2020 and other models would follow. There was also plans about selling diesels for Cadillacs in the U.S. But Cadillac President Steve Carlisle said development has been put on hold.
"We have been working on diesel, but the markets may be changing more quickly than we anticipated," he said to AN.
"Going forward, we will focus on electrification."
The diesel program at Cadillac got hit with a double whammy over the past few years. First was the Volkswagen diesel emission crisis that broke in September 2015. There was talk about killing the project, but "executives felt it had progressed too far to kill". Then last year, General Motors sold Opel to PSA Group. The German division was working with Cadillac with development. Still, the brand continued with progress.
It is unclear as to why Cadillac has put the program on hold now, but we're guessing the combination of stricter regulations coming into Europe and more competitors deciding to go all-in electrification are the main reasons.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

A fresh set of spy shots have come, revealing Cadillac's upcoming CT4 sedan. This will be replacement for the slow-selling ATS.
But you might be thinking this is the larger CT5, the replacement for the CTS. Both vehicles are dressed up in similar-looking camouflage and have the same overall shape. We'll admit that we were confused when we first laid eyes on the photos, but Autoblog has come to rescue to by having spy shots of both the CT4 and CT5 to help point out differences.
The key difference between the two models is in the back. If the cutout for license plate is at the bumper and a slightly rounded trunk lid, that's the CT4. If the cutout is higher and the trundled is slightly flatter, that's the CT5. There are some other tells such as the CT4's greenhouse ending closer to centerline of the rear wheels, and the size of side-view mirrors. One item that is similar on both models is the influence of the Escala concept in the front - large grille and slim headlights.
Both sedans are expected to use an updated version of the Alpha RWD platform.
Expect to see the CT4 debut sometime towards the end of 2019.
Source: Autoblog

The U.S. Patent and and Trademark Office (USPTO) sometimes provides some clues as to what automakers have possibly in the works. Case in point are a set of drawings depicting a new coupe for Cadillac.
General Motors filed the patent for a “vehicle body exterior” on February 14th, 2017. The patent was approved by the USPTO earlier this week.
The drawings reveal a fair amount of influence from the Escala. Up front resides a trapezoidal grille and a set of slim headlights. Along the side profile, the design shares the Escala's low-slung roof and creases. The back features a trunk lid with chiseling near the taillights.
What could this patent be hinting at?
Cadillac Society believes this could be the coupe variant for the upcoming CT5.
CarScoops thinks it could be a concept of some sort, pointing out the side-view cameras.
Possible electric/plug-in hybrid coupe
We'll keep you posted if anything new comes to light on this possible new coupe.
Source: Cadillac Society, CarScoops
Thanks to @balthazar for the news tip
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The U.S. Patent and and Trademark Office (USPTO) sometimes provides some clues as to what automakers have possibly in the works. Case in point are a set of drawings depicting a new coupe for Cadillac.
General Motors filed the patent for a “vehicle body exterior” on February 14th, 2017. The patent was approved by the USPTO earlier this week.
The drawings reveal a fair amount of influence from the Escala. Up front resides a trapezoidal grille and a set of slim headlights. Along the side profile, the design shares the Escala's low-slung roof and creases. The back features a trunk lid with chiseling near the taillights.
What could this patent be hinting at?
Cadillac Society believes this could be the coupe variant for the upcoming CT5.
CarScoops thinks it could be a concept of some sort, pointing out the side-view cameras.
Possible electric/plug-in hybrid coupe
We'll keep you posted if anything new comes to light on this possible new coupe.
Source: Cadillac Society, CarScoops
Thanks to @balthazar for the news tip

The 2019 Cadillac XT4 is an important vehicle for the brand for a number of reasons. It's the first vehicle part of a major product offensive by Cadillac that will see them introduce a new/redesigned model almost every six months through 2021. It also gives Cadillac a contender in the growing small luxury crossover class.
The overall design of the XT4 is very similar to the larger XT5 with sharp angles, large front grille, headlights that extend downward to the bumper, and taillights that run from the top of the tailgate to underneath the window. 18-inch wheels come standard, while larger 20-inch wheels are optional. The overall dimensions of the XT4 - 181.1-inch overall length, 109.4-inch wheelbase, 74.1-inches wide, and 64.1-inches tall - puts it between subcompact and compact crossovers.
Inside, Cadillac went for a modern and clean look. An 8-inch touchscreen housing the Cadillac User Experience infotainment system is standard on XT4s. Like the CT6 refresh, the XT4 will have a rotary control knob to control the system. Cargo space measures out 22.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 48.9 cubic feet when folded.
Powering all XT4s will be a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder with 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This will come paired with a nine-speed automatic and the choice of front or all-wheel drive. Cadillac estimates fuel economy figures of 25 City/30 Highway/27 Combined - we're assuming the numbers are for the front-wheel drive model.
The suspension is comprised of a front strut and five-link rear setup. Sport models get the option of a Continuous Damping Control system that automatically adjusts the firmness based on a number of parameters.
Pricing for the 2019 XT4 kicks off at $35,790 when it arrives at dealers this fall. Those interested can order an XT4 beginning at the end of this month.
Source: Cadillac
Press Release is on Page 2
Cadillac Introduces First-Ever XT4
All-new compact SUV delivers more for a new generation of luxury buyers
At Cadillac House in Manhattan today, Cadillac unveiled the first-ever XT4, an all-new compact SUV tailored for the next generation of luxury customers.
Developed on an exclusive compact SUV architecture, Cadillac’s entry in the industry’s fastest-growing luxury segment delivers expressive design, confident performance, spacious accommodations and new technologies.
“The first-ever 2019 Cadillac XT4 expands our successful SUV lineup to a segment where Cadillac has never been before,” said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen. “And it sets off a dramatic expansion and elevation of the product range, that will see a new Cadillac virtually once every six months through 2021.”
Simple and sculpted lines draw the customer in and accentuate the XT4’s powerful proportions and aggressive presence. The interior is the Cadillac design aesthetic distilled: the thoughtful and artistic integration of technology and appealing style. The cabin is exceptionally refined, with expected segment-leading rear-seat spaciousness.
All models are driven by an all-new Cadillac 2.0L Turbo engine that features new efficiency-enhancing technologies including Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation), coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission with next-generation Electronic Precision Shift.
Cadillac also debuts its new global “Y” trim strategy on the XT4. Distinctive Premium Luxury and Sport models build from the well-equipped Luxury (base) trim. Specific content and styling cues tailor the Premium Luxury and Sport trims to different customer tastes and preferences.
Cadillac will roll out this new trim strategy beginning with the XT4 and the 2019 CT6 top-of-range sedan.
The XT4 will be priced starting at $35,790 including destination charge, excluding tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment, when it goes on sale in fall 2018. Starting at the end of March 2018, customers will be able to preorder their XT4s from participating U.S. Cadillac dealers nationwide.
Additional XT4 highlights include:
Cadillac user experience with all-new rotary controller
Smart chassis features including available twin-clutch, decoupling all-wheel drive
Available Active Sport Suspension featuring Continuous Damping Control and new electro-hydraulic braking assist
STYLE WITH SUBSTANCE
A team of young designers representing the heart of the XT4’s target customer demographic helmed the design, penning an expressive SUV that injects a higher degree of sculpture into Cadillac’s lineup — and today’s vehicle is very close to their original visions for the exterior and interior.
“The XT4 has a great presence that is confident and poised,” said Therese Pinazzo, exterior design manager. “It exudes Cadillac’s DNA, but with a new boldness that speaks to the youthfulness of its team and its customers.”
In keeping with Cadillac’s new “Y” trim strategy, the Luxury, Premium Luxury and Sport models offer distinctive styling cues and trim finishes to create unique personas and greater choice for customers. XT4 Sport models feature a gloss black mesh grille inspired by Cadillac’s high-performance V-Series models, gloss black window moldings and specific Sport alloy wheel choices. Luxury and Premium Luxury models feature grilles with bright metallic accents, satin aluminum window moldings and satin chrome-accented door handles.
All models feature advanced LED lighting technology front and rear, with front LED low and high beams and an LED-illuminated light blade for the daytime running lamps. Cadillac’s vertical L-shaped lighting signature is stretched horizontally, emphasizing the XT4’s width and confident stance.
Standard LED taillights are housed in traditional red lenses on Luxury and Premium Luxury, while the Sport model receives tinted neutral-density (clear) lenses that complement the generally darker exterior color choices.
Eight exterior colors will be offered on the 2019 XT4 at launch: Atlantic Metallic, Autumn Metallic, Crystal White Tricoat, Twilight Blue Metallic, Shadow Metallic, Red Horizon Tintcoat, Stellar Black Metallic and Radiant Silver Metallic.
BOLD, REFINED AND SPACIOUS CABIN
Echoing the exterior design themes, the new XT4’s cabin conveys boldness and strength with youthful athleticism. Sweeping arcs and tapered lines enhance the feeling of spaciousness and give it a taut, tightly wrapped appearance.
The interior elements come together in a sophisticated and modern design. Intuitive technology includes available next-generation wireless device charging and an in-cabin air ionizer.
“With the XT4’s interior, we distilled Cadillac to its essence,” said Phillip Kucera, Interior Design manager. “We’ve been able to be simpler and bolder than we have ever been before, giving the SUV attitude and a sporty connotation.”
The all-new XT4 offers exceptional space for a compact luxury SUV, particularly for rear-seat passengers. It is expected to lead the segment in rear-seat roominess, with 39.5 inches (1,004 mm) of legroom. The XT4 also offers 48.9 cubic feet (1,385 liters) of maximum cargo volume with the rear seat folded.
"The XT4 was envisioned holistically to deliver a dynamic sporty exterior without compromising comfort and functionality for passengers,” said Cadillac Exterior Design Director Jim Fleming, who helped create the vehicle’s architecture.
“It’s a great balance that delivers style and comfort on long drives such as a weekend getaway to a favorite ski slope, while still offering excellent cargo room for that ski trip’s gear.”
Additional interior features and highlights include:
The thick, three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel is all new and was developed to enhance the sporty feel of the vehicle while maintaining driver comfort on long drives.
Sport-inspired seating with prominent seat-bottom and seatback bolsters balances comfort with the kind of support typically found in sports sedans. A massage feature is available.
Available white ambient lighting casts a sophisticated glow and highlights important features.
Technology integration includes Cadillac’s first rotary controller for the Cadillac user experience and other vehicle features (see below for more information), along with streamlined vehicle controls for easier, more intuitive use.
At launch, the 2019 XT4 will be offered in seven interior environments, based on Luxury, Premium Luxury or Sport trims:
XT4 Luxury — Light Platinum/Jet Black with Aluminum Metallized decor trim
XT4 Premium Luxury — Jet Black with Diamond-Cut Aluminum, Light Platinum/Jet Black with Linear Galaxy High-Gloss Wood, Sedona/Jet Black with Fineline Calico High-Gloss Wood
XT4 Sport — Jet Black with Cinnamon Accents with Twenty-Two High-Gloss Carbon Fiber, Light Wheat/Jet Black with Red Accents and Morello Red High-Gloss Carbon Fiber, Sedona/Jet Black with Fineline Calico High-Gloss Wood
INTUITIVE TECHNOLOGIES
Led by the latest Cadillac user experience, the brand’s most advanced infotainment interface, the XT4 offers a connected environment.
The Cadillac user experience is a dynamic platform that offers a smartphone-like experience with an intuitive interface, faster response and improved voice recognition that can be updated over time to meet a customer’s evolving connectivity needs. It leverages the cloud and available embedded 4G LTE connection to enable personalization, available connected navigation and news, marketplace and entertainment applications via the app store and a new rotary controller that offers users alternative ways to interact with the system.
The new controller includes volume and seek forward/back controls for the audio system; shortcut buttons for fast access to the most frequently used apps such as Audio, Phone, Navigation (if available) and Home; and a large center dial to operate primary features of the most frequently used apps, scroll menus and lists and select other apps to be displayed.
Additional XT4 technologies include:
The 8-inch diagonal Cadillac user experience interface screen has 768p HD resolution
Near-Field Communication, a Cadillac-first integration, greatly improves the process of pairing a phone (if compatible) with Cadillac user experience.
Next-generation, 15-watt wireless charging is available and offers faster charging timesi .
There are four standard USB Ports and three 12-volt accessory power outletsii. Models equipped with the available navigation radio also receive an SD memory card reader in the center console.
The full suite of active safety features includes Surround Vision and second-generation Rear Camera Mirror (available)iii.
XT4 DRIVING DYNAMICS
The new Cadillac XT4’s confident, athletic appearance is complemented by great agility. It is characteristically Cadillac in refinement and responsiveness, but with a youthful edginess derived from the brand’s critically acclaimed sports sedans.
It starts with an all-new Cadillac 2.0L Turbo engine. This advanced, power-dense inline-four-cylinder — 118.5 hp per liter — features an industry-first tripower system. The system is designed to optimize performance and efficiency by having three distinct operating modes, including high and low valve lift and Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation).
The engine also features a twin-scroll turbocharger to enhance torque production at lower speeds, as well as direct injection, active thermal management and stop/start technologies. Output is SAE-certified at 237 hp (177 kW) and 258 lb-ft of torque (350 Nm). A nearly flat torque curve gives the XT4 surprising responsiveness throughout the engine’s RPM range.
A nine-speed automatic transmission is paired with the new engine, helping the XT4 achieve a Cadillac-estimated 30 mpg in highway drivingiv. The vehicle also features the next generation of electronic precision shift, which features an intuitive shifting sequence.
When it comes to channeling the XT4’s power to the pavement, a strut-type front suspension and five-link independent rear suspension are tuned to balance refinement with responsiveness. The standard Driver Select Mode allows that tuning to be adjusted on demand for different driving styles and road conditions.
A twin-clutch all-wheel-drive system is available and offers the convenience of decoupling entirely from the rear wheels when the driver chooses, eliminating drivetrain friction.
XT4 Sport’s available Active Sport Suspension features Continuous Damping Control and takes driving dynamics and control to a higher threshold, using electronic sensors to monitor the road in real time and making damping adjustments every 2 milliseconds.
The XT4 is also the first Cadillac to introduce electro-hydraulic braking assist, which supplants the traditional vacuum-assisted power braking system with an electro-hydraulic system that enhances fuel economy and takes up less space under the hood.
KEY STANDARD AND AVAILABLE FEATURES (Premium Luxury and Sport content is in addition to or in place of Luxury content)
XT4 LUXURY
XT4 PREMIUM LUXURY
XT4 SPORT
STANDARD
STANDARD
STANDARD
18-in. 10-spoke alloy wheels with Bright Silver finish
LED headlamps and taillamps
Satin aluminum side glass moldings
Leatherette trim
8-way driver/6-way passenger power front seats
Aluminum metallized interior decor
Rotary controller
Rear Park Assistiii
Teen Driveriii
Cadillac user experience
Four USB ports
60/40-split rear seat
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Adaptive Remote Start
18-inch 10-spoke wheels with Pearl Nickel finish
Illuminated door handles with satin chrome accents
Front and Rear Park Assistiii
Power-folding outside mirrors
Satin aluminum finish on roof rails
Leather seat surfaces
Ambient lighting
Wood or aluminum interior décor
Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alertiii
Rear Cross Traffic Alertiii
Safety Alert Seatiii
Auto-dimming inside mirror
Driver’s seat memory
Power liftgate
18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels with Diamond Cut/Argent Metallic finish
LED front turn signal and cornering lamps
Tinted neutral-density taillamp lenses
Gloss Black finish on the front grille, side glass moldings and roof rails
Body-color door handles
Front and Rear Park Assistiii
Power-folding outside mirrors
Leatherette trim with sport accents
Ambient lighting
Carbon fiber or wood interior décor
Sport steering wheel and pedals
Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alertiii
Rear Cross Traffic Alertiii
Safety Alert Seatiii
Auto-dimming inside mirror
Driver’s seat memory
Power liftgate
AVAILABLE
AVAILABLE
AVAILABLE
Sunroof and roof rails
Trailering package
All-wheel drive
Navigation radio and Bose audio system
Cold weather package
Sunroof
Trailering package
All-wheel drive
Navigation radio and Bose audio system
Cold weather package
Comfort and Convenience package
20-inch Luxury wheels
Driver Awareness Package
Visibility Package
Driver Assist Package
Technology Package
Sunroof
Trailering package
All-wheel drive
Navigation radio and Bose audio system
Cold weather package
Comfort and Convenience package
20-inch Sport wheels
Driver Awareness Package
Visibility Package
Driver Assist Package
Technology Package
Active Sport Suspension with Continuous Damping Control
###
2019 CADILLAC XT4 PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
(North American specs, as of time of publication)
OVERVIEW
Model
2019 Cadillac XT4
Body Style
5 door, 5 passenger compact luxury SUV
Manufacturing location
Fairfax Assembly, Kansas City, Kansas
EXTERIOR
Wheelbase (in / mm)
109.4 / 2779
Overall length (in / mm)
181.1 / 4599
Overall width (in / mm)
74.1 / 1881 (excluding outside rearview mirrors)
Overall height (in / mm)
64.1 / 1627 (including roof rails)
Turning circle (feet)
38.0
Ground clearance (in / mm)
6.7 / 171
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS & CARGO VOLUME
Seating capacity (front / rear)
2 / 3
Headroom
(in / mm)
39.4 / 1000 (front)
38.3 / 973 (rear)
Legroom
(in. / mm)
40.4 / 1026 (front)
44.1 / 1121 (front, maximum)
39.5 / 1004 (rear)
Cargo volume (cu ft)
22.5 (behind 1st row)
48.9 (behind 2nd row)
WEIGHTS & CAPACITIES
Curb weight (lbs / kg)
3660 / 1660 (FWD Luxury – est.)
Max. towing capacity (lbs)
3500 (with available towing package)
CADILLAC-ESTIMATED FUEL ECONOMY
City
25 mpg
Highway
30 mpg
Combined
27 mpg
ENGINE
Type:
2.0L Turbocharged I4 DOHC with Active Fuel Management, direct injection and stop/start
Bore and stroke (in. / mm):
3.26 x 3.63 / 83 x 92.3
Block material:
Cast aluminum
Cylinder head material:
Cast aluminum
Valvetrain:
Dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder with tripower system
Fuel delivery:
Direct injection with electronic throttle control
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm):
237 / 177 @ 5000 (SAE cert.)
Torque
(lb.-ft. / Nm):
258 / 350 @ 1500-4000 (SAE cert.)
TRANSMISSION
Type:
Hydra-Matic 9T50 nine-speed electronically controlled automatic
CHASSIS & SUSPENSION
Front Suspension:
MacPherson strut with coil-over spring; direct-acting stabilizer bar. Active Sport Suspension with Continuous Damping Control (avail. on Sport)
Rear Suspension:
Five-link independent with coil springs and fully isolated cradle
Steering Type:
Electric variable-assist power rack-and-pinion
Brake Type:
Four-wheel disc with ABS; electro-hydraulic assist
Wheel Size:
18-in. alloy (std.)
20-in. alloy (avail.)
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